I used to get discouraged when I would take a writing class or attend a conference and be forced to acknowledge that the world is full of talented writers who are as more driven than I am to create and tell stories. It made my dreams feel ordinary and facing the competition was depressing.
Then, five years ago, I joined a writing group formed in one of those classes. I never felt that way again. I became invested in these people and the stories that they tell. I want them to achieve their writing and life goals and I believe that they will. I’ll be there with reasonably priced champagne when they do.
Yesterday, I got an email from a friend who is a former member of my writing group. I mentioned that I had submitted a writing sample to another agent and that I was prepared for the statistical probable rejection that I will receive. He replied with this message:
Final 2015 stats from an agency in Denver: 29k submissions. 130 requests for full manuscripts. 3 new authors signed.
You don’t get to be one of the final three without first being one of the 29k.
Writers are not your competition. They are your fellow dreamers. We all have stories to tell.
Sit down and email one of them right now. I guarantee they will appreciate the encouragement.